HEARTWOOD REGIONAL THEATER COMPANY’S adaptastion of William Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” opens April 26 for an eight-show run at Parker Poe Theater in Newcastle. The cast, in back from left, includes Margo O’Leary, Mickey McAtee, Millie Santiago, Joe McGrann, Bill Vaughan, Coady Robson, Tyson Bailey, JP Guilmont and Jim Reitz. In front are Dana Wieluns, Mary Boothby, Chris Davis, Elise Voigt, Jojo Martin and Marjolaine Whittlesey. Missing from photo is Mark Bedell.
“It’s a joy working with this experienced, savvy cast, many of whom come with very strong resumes. They’re open and motivated to explore and produce this show, tailored to this time and performance space,” said Griff Braley, artistic director at Heartwood Regional Theater Company.
The mammoth role of Macbeth is taken on by 28-year-old Chris Davis, who grew up in Falmouth and has been living and working in New York for the past five years. Davis, who moved to Damariscotta for the six-week production process, said, “Traditionally played older, I find the role of Macbeth fascinating, in this modern setting where power and social status are just as relevant as the hierarchy of the Elizabethan times.”
In the role of Lady Macbeth is Elise Voigt, who finds it “…tremendously interesting searching within the context of today’s world for an interpretation of Shakespeare’s verse that holds truth for us — exploring modern relationship dynamics, while using elevated poetic language. I think the result will be a marriage the audience is startled to recognize.”
The noble Macduff family is led by Portland-area equity actor JP Guilmont, who played the role of Macduff last summer in Freeport. At his side is Marjolaine Whittlesey as Lady Macduff and son, Jojo Martin.
Movie actor, stunt coordinator and performer, Mark Bedell, further charges the atmosphere as the noble Banquo.
The Three Witches — Mary Boothby, Margo O’Leary and Dana Wieluns (movement coach for the witches) — are joined by Millie Santiago, as Hecate.
Further permeating the stage with drama, intrigue and power are Joe McGrann and Peter Christine, as the Scottish noblemen Ross and Angus, and Macbeth’s drunken Porter, performed by Jim Reitz, of Thomaston.
Bill Vaughan takes on the role of King Duncan, with sons Malcolm and Donalbain portrayed by Coady Robson and Tyson Bailey. Lincoln Academy student Mickey McAtee appears as Young Seward and Murderer.
In a “virtual role,” Portland actor Tony Reilly of AIRE Theater appears in a prefilmed green screen scene, as Sergeant.
“Macbeth” runs April 26, 27 and May 3, 4, 9, 10 and 11 at 7:30 p.m. with one 3 p.m. matinee, Sunday, May 5, in the Parker Poe Theater.
Tickets are $10/students, $20/adults (advance), $22 (at the door).
Reservations can be made by calling 563-1373 or emailing boxoffice@heartwoodthe-
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